Frostproof, FL (1/20 - 2/3/24)

Moving back south to the warmth of central Florida, we stayed at the Resort at Canopy Oaks nearest the towns of Frostproof and Lake Wales about 60 miles south of Orlando.

Although this resort was fairly remote from outside commercial enterprises, it was fully self-sufficient with many activities, a big tiki bar, large pool/hot tub, restaurant/shops, food trucks, and live entertainment.

This fairly new resort was pretty large and had roomy sites with water views (some) on concrete pads with fire pits.

From the town of Bartow, we rode the Ft. Fraser Trail for about 17 miles out and back.

Along the trail we bumped into a Maryland themed restaurant, Charm City Seafood. As much as I wanted it to be just like home, it just wasn't the same as I remember.

The trail was in good condition and fully paved. The trail did parallel a roadway, but there was wooded buffer throughout much of the ride.

We also took an afternoon to ride part of the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail (LOST). The trail was good in some places, but was difficult to ride without need to traverse busy roads to connect places where trail was cut-off by waterways. In this picture we did happen to see a bobcat walking along trail.

If your near Lake Wales, a stop at the Bok Tower Gardens may be worth your time. This carillon (bell tower) plays automated music on the hour and has two concerts a day with songs played by carillonneurs. There are also several pathways through many gardens across the grounds.

Adjacent to the carillon was also the El Retiro, a historic mansion available to inside tours that was interesting to see.

One day we took a road trip about an hour east to visit Vero Beach on the east coast. Here one evening we ate at the Ocean Grill right on the beach.

Back at the resort is where we spent much of our time, we had this sunset view most evenings from the large tiki bar where many gathered for happy hour and food from the rotating food trucks.

It was also nice enough we visited the pool a few times.

Michelle even entered a Chili Cook-off competition. She didn't win, but I felt her chili was better than ones that did.